Research in the Jin group is centered on the chemistry and physics of nanoscale materials. We develop rational strategies for chemical synthesis, assembly and integration of nanomaterials, and investigate fundamental synthesis-structure-property relationships, especially through device fabrication and characterization. By creatively and synergistically integrating our combination of expertise in both synthetic materials chemistry and nanoscience and nanotechnology, we aim to advance the chemical synthesis, fundamental understanding, and technological applications of novel nanoscale materials. A chemist's approach to functional nanomaterials is to build from the bottom up and control the atomic and nanoscale structures drawing from extensive chemical knowledge of the material systems. We apply chemical vapor deposition (CVD), vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) growth, as well as solid-state and solution-phase nanomaterials synthesis, and "traditional" inorganic synthesis of single source organometallic precursors. We are particularly interested in earth-abundant semiconductors and their nanostructures for solar (photovoltaic and photoelectrochemical) energy conversion and thermoelectric energy conversion. We are also interested in nanospintronics using magnetic semiconducting nanomaterials and applications of nanomaterials in biotechnology.

          Research in our lab is highly interdisciplinary in nature. Many research projects will involve collaborations within the group, with other research groups in the department, or with physicists and/or engineers on or off UW campus. Students from a variety of backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to contribute to the exciting and fruitful research in this multidisciplinary setting. The reward of such experience is only enhanced when they proactively take advantage of the extensive research facilities on UW campus, such electron microscopy and cleanroom, and when they collaborate with and learn from each other.

Linked below are summaries of our major on-going research areas: